Congresswoman Wilson Secures Return of Body of Florida Trooper Killed in Haiti

Statement

On Friday, June 15, 2012, Congresswoman Frederica Wilson (D-Fla.) was successful in getting the body of Florida Highway Patrolman Jean Barthelus flown back to Miami. Trooper Barthelus was in Haiti visiting his ailing wife when he was shot and killed on June 8, 2012, by two men who flagged him down on a road in Haiti.

"It pains me to learn of Trooper Jean Barthelus's senseless and brutal murder. Upon hearing this, I immediately began working with other state and federal agencies to relieve his family of the economic burden of recovering his body. As a result of this effort, I am happy to report that Trooper Barthelus's body is being flown back to Miami today and will be turned over to his family. Trooper Barthelus was a beloved husband, father, son and brother. He was the bedrock of his family, and they will need the support of the South Florida family as they cope with this tragic loss."

Trooper Jean Barthelus, who was 47 years old, was an eight-year veteran of the Florida Highway Patrol. He joined in December of 2004 and was assigned to Troop E Miami. He is survived by his wife, his daughter, his mother and several brothers and sisters. Funeral services are pending.

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